We Love the Bridges of Old River

Just as today, bridges in the early days of Rocky River were necessary to help patrons cross from Lakewood to Rocky River.

The earliest bridges were simple swing line bridges, but the need for something substantial quickly arose due to the rich agriculture being transported to Cleveland's West Side market from Rocky River's abundant farms and historic greenhouses.

Bridges soon needed to accommodate horse and buggy and soon after, trolleys and automobiles. In 1910, Rocky River built its first concrete bridge and its opening celebration boasted 1,500 decorated automobiles in a parade. The bridge lasted for 70 years and you will still find three arches on the west end where the bridge once existed.

Come visit Historic Old River and take a stroll down to the bridge building to see where this historic structure once lived.